Bailey-Matthews National Shell Museum

The Bailey-Matthews National Shell Museum, located on Sanibel Island, Florida, is the only museum in the United States dedicated solely to studying and appreciating shells and the mollusks that create them. This unique museum houses an extensive collection of shells from around the world, showcasing mollusks' beauty, diversity, and significance in the natural world. The museum's exhibits provide valuable insights into molluscan behavior, biology, evolution, and their impact on human culture.

Visitors to the Bailey-Matthews National Shell Museum are taken on a fascinating journey through the world of mollusks and their shells. The museum features hands-on exhibits, educational displays, and live tanks where visitors can observe mollusks in action. Daily talks and tours by knowledgeable staff add depth to the visitor experience. In addition, the museum offers beach walks led by marine biologists, allowing visitors to discover and learn about shells in their natural habitat.

The Bailey-Matthews National Shell Museum takes a strong stand in conservation, primarily through education and advocacy. It promotes ethical shell-collecting practices to protect living mollusks and their habitats. The museum's researchers contribute to understanding mollusks, leading to better conservation policies and practices. Furthermore, through various programs and initiatives, the museum strives to educate the public about mollusks' crucial role in maintaining healthy ecosystems.